Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Elementary School is celebrating 50 years of faith, learning and community.
Officials marked the golden anniversary of the Sturgeon Falls school on May 15.
They say the celebration brought together students, past and present staff, families, alumni, board members, and community partners, reflecting on the strong relationships that have supported the school for five decades.
Events included cultural celebrations, a mass of Thanksgiving and Bishop Dowd presenting the school with a Papal Blessing from Pope Leo XIV.
“This blessing is a profound honour for our school community,” says Stacey Malette, Principal of Our Lady of Sorrows. “For 50 years, Our Lady of Sorrows has been a place where faith, learning, and belonging come together, and this celebration reflects the love and dedication of everyone who has helped shape that legacy.”
Congratulations and reflections were also shared by Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic Board (NPSC) officials, Gimaa Cathy Stevens of Nipissing First Nation, municipal, provincial, and federal representatives, and others.
“As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we do so with deep gratitude for the close-knit West Nipissing community and, in a very special way, Nipissing First Nation,” says Paula Mann, Director of Education at NPSC. “The Nation’s partnership, advocacy, and friendship have profoundly shaped Our Lady of Sorrows, grounding it in relationships built on trust, respect, and a shared responsibility for the well-being and success of our children.”
NPSC says the celebration saw guests reconnecting, sharing stories, and honouring the many individuals who have contributed to the life of the school.
